Christine

In 1974, Christine Chubbuck relocates to Sarasota, Florida, leaving her previous reporting role in Boston behind. She joins WZRB Channel 30, where she aims to produce meaningful news stories that resonate with the community.

Christine receives a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to interview President Richard Nixon just weeks before his resignation. However, she is disheartened to find herself alone in the studio, illustrating the challenges she faces in her career.

With the newscast underway, Christine is set to cover a contentious zoning issue in Sarasota. George, the anchor, is at the desk, placing pressure on Christine to deliver impactful news despite rising tensions within the station.

Christine faces immense pressure from her superior, Michael, who insists that sensational stories attract higher ratings. This leaves Christine conflicted as she grapples with her values and the integrity of her reporting.

Amidst her professional struggles, Christine experiences personal health issues, including visits to doctors. She learns about an ovarian cyst, a harrowing discovery that weighs heavily on her mind regarding motherhood.

Christine performs puppet shows for children, which become increasingly somber reflections of her emotional state. These performances highlight the contrast between her creative aspirations and her personal turmoil.

Tensions mount at home with Christine and her mother, Peg. Their arguments over daily life reveal the effect of Christine's career struggles and emotional distress on their relationship.

In her pursuit of impactful stories, Christine tries to connect with a police captain for insights. However, when she leans into sensationalism by covering a house fire, she faces criticism for her approach to storytelling.

As the Fourth of July party approaches, Christine's frustration becomes evident in her interactions with colleagues. Her innovative story ideas are dismissed, exacerbating her feelings of inadequacy.

After a disagreement with George about his move to Baltimore, Christine's insecurities come to the forefront. This confrontation deepens her emotional struggle both in her personal life and career.

In a moment of hope, Christine starts to bond with Jean, the camera operator at the station. This connection offers her a glimpse of camaraderie amidst the pressures and challenges she faces in the newsroom.

Christine's dissatisfaction with the news industry reaches a critical point as she prepares for a shocking broadcast. She plans a live suicide, a decision that ultimately reflects her deep struggles with mental health and the pressures of sensationalism.

In a harrowing live moment, Christine pulls out a gun and takes her life on air, shocking her colleagues and viewers. This tragic act forever alters the reputation of the station and leaves a profound impact on the community.

Christine is taken to the hospital following her suicide attempt, where the weight of her actions becomes clear. The consequence of her choice ripples through her family and the community as they grapple with the tragedy.

The film concludes with Jean creating a memorial for Christine, encapsulating her haunting legacy. This serves as a reflection on Christine's struggle for significance in a world dominated by sensationalism and superficial storytelling.